Global Map of Startup Ecosystem Influencers and List of Startup Ecosystem Influencers

Browse the list of over 150 startup ecosystem influencers across 1,000 cities and 100 countries.

Which countries have the most influential startup ecosystem influencers?

The United States is the country with the highest number of influential startup influencers and entrepreneurs with over 81% of all startup influencers, followed by the United Kingdom, China and Israel. Since the United States contribution is massive, North America is the region with the highest concentration of influential startup ecosystem influencers.

How to identify globally influential startup influencers?

We consider two primary aspects while forming this list. Firstly, the influencers should create something substantial with a massive impact, which can vary from founding a highly valued corporation like SpaceX. Secondly, we evaluate the global influence of the influencer, extending beyond a specific startup ecosystem.

Every year, we update the list of influencers in preparation for the Global Startup Ecosystem Index. This process is conducted internally and involves discussions with a select group of ecosystem development advisors. If you'd like to propose adding or removing an influencer, please feel free to contact us.

Who are startup influencers?

While the success of companies is a major factor in influencing a startup ecosystem, the individuals who have created impactful projects are equally significant. When many startup influencers choose to base themselves in a city or country, it sends a clear signal of cutting-edge growth, startup success, and an enhanced quality of life. In ranking the startup ecosystems of cities and countries, where startup influencers choose to base themselves, plays an important role in defining the success of an ecosystem.

Currently, Our Global Map of Startup Ecosystem Influencers showcases over 150 global influencers from around the world. These influencers range from those heading giant corporations to solo entrepreneurs whose ideas have had a positive impact on their startup ecosystem.

• Established corporations with high innovation (e.g., Apple, Microsoft).
• Innovative programs or initiatives (e.g., Estonian E-Residency, StartupChile).
• Noteworthy publications or books (e.g., Israel's Startup Nation Book).
• Global coworking spaces (e.g., WeWork).
• Reputable universities with successful entrepreneur alumni (e.g., MIT, Harvard Business School).
• Globally Recognized startup-focused press (e.g., TechCrunch).
• Recognized accelerators (e.g., TechStars, Y Combinator).

Each influential startup ecosystem stakeholder has a tier: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Gold indicates the highest level of impact while Bronze refers to the lowest level of impact. Our PRO members can filter these stakeholders by tier to see which locations have produced the most influential stakeholders.